Pets are never forgotten on Christmas and many have taken part in a festive family photoshoot to raise money for charity.

The Old Golfhouse Vets in Watton and Thetford hold a charity pets photoshoot to raise money for the NCDL. Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2017

The Old Golfhouse Veterinary Group in Watton and Thetford transformed into a photo studio filled with Christmas props and costumes.

Donned in mini santa hats and winter scarves, families and their pets had their pictures taken against a festive backdrop complete with a Christmas tree, presents and a cosy fireplace.

After a chaotic start getting the animals in costume and away from the wrapping paper, they were able to settle down after a treat and smiled on cue for the cameras.

After the shoot, families were given the option of having their pictures emailed to them or printed onto 10 Christmas cards.

The Old Golfhouse Vets in Watton and Thetford hold a charity pets photoshoot to raise money for the NCDL. Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2017

The money raised will be going towards the vets’ chosen charity of the year Dogs Trust.

Practice manager Tilly Morgan said: “We wanted to do something seasonal and obviously Christmas is coming up so we thought this would be a nice idea.

“We thought personalised cards would be nice and even a portrait as it is difficult to include your animals in them.

“We fundraise for the charity of the year with various events, next year we are hoping to find dog safe paints for dogs to draw their own portraits with their paws, which owners can hang up if they like.”

The Old Golfhouse Vets in Watton and Thetford hold a charity pets photoshoot to raise money for the NCDL. Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2017

Sallie and Graham Watson, from Saham Toney, near Watton, took a few snaps with their dogs Basil and Boycie.

Mrs Watson said: “Basil is 17 so it may be the last time we have a picture together at Christmas.

“And it is for charity as well, it is for a good cause.”

Laura Clayton and Aaron McCulloch, from Hingham, brought their dog Rex along, who is well-prepped in having his pictures taken. He has his own Instagram account, @rexford_the_lab, which is followed by more than 10,000 people.

The Old Golfhouse Vets in Watton and Thetford hold a charity pets photoshoot to raise money for the NCDL. Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2017

Miss Clayton said: “Dogs just make people happy and sending cards to dog lovers is a nice thing to do.”

Ruth and Gavin Codling, from Hethersett, brought their pup Teal to the shoot. Mrs Gavin said: “The money is going to charity and it is a nice idea to have the personalised Christmas cards.”

For more information about the veterinary group’s fundraising events, go to oldgolfhousevets.co.uk.